However, dirt floors are common in older homes or as a way to keep construction costs low. Crawl spaces with dirt floors are more prone to water issues since water can seep through the ground at any time. Removing water from a crawl space with a dirt floor poses an additional challenge because of all that dirt. Not only can it clog pumps and wet-dry vacuums, but it also retains water. Place the hose near the surface of the water to limit the amount of dirt you suck up. This is more labor-intensive but helps prevent clogs. If sewage backed up into your crawl space, you will also need to remove and replace the dirt. While this may seem unnecessary, the soil may continue to harbor mold, bacteria, and parasites. As the water levels rise during rainy weather, this can lead to mold or health problems. Get Fast, Reliable Crawl Space Water Removal Services If you need help removing water in your crawl space, let Restoration Local help. Call 1-888-443-3110 to talk with our water damage restoration specialist near you for a free estimate and emergency cleanup.
In most cases, turning off the water shutoff valve will fix the issue. However, some situations will require repairs as well. If the water is caused by nature, like storm flooding, there is nothing you can do. Skip immediately to step 2. Pump or Vacuum Out The Water – Next, remove as much water as possible. Use a submersible pump when possible. Alternatively, use a wet-dry shop-style vacuum. Avoid pouring the water down a drain or into the sewers, as it can cause a sewage backup or re-enter your home. Instead, pour the water away from your home. Dry Out the Area – After removing the water, dry the area with high-volume fans and dehumidifiers. Use as many fans as possible to speed drying. Adjust them every few hours for the fastest drying time. This prevents permanent damage to wood beams or the foundation. It also limits the risk of mold. Access The Damage – Water can weaken the structure of your home. Check for rotting wood, damaged brick and other issues. Since the crawl space is the foundation of your home, leaving damage unrepaired could cause a collapse.
Make sure to dump the pumped water away from the area to prevent it from seeping back into the crawl space. Remove any remnants in the crawl space. If there are any dirt or dead insects, be sure to clean them up so that the area will not only be free of water, but clean as well. Let the crawl space dry. If you want to expedite the space's drying process, you can use a fan heater. Check your crawl space frequently to see if there is more water that have accumulated since you last got rid of it. Also, have it repaired for any damages to avoid complete ruin of your crawl space. Insects and rodents may inhabit your crawl space. If this is so, contact a pest control expert to get rid of them. Rodents can chew into the wirings that run through the crawl space and they will also deposit waste that will contribute to the stink of the place.
Your crawl space is the foundation of your home. Water in your crawl space will weaken the foundation and cause wood beams to rot. Unfortunately, it's also one of the hardest places in your home to clean up water damage. It's often cramped and confined, which makes removing water more difficult. Mold or sewage can make it even less pleasant. We look at how to remove water in a crawl space, plus prevent mold and odors from developing over time. Can't remove the water from your crawl space? Call 1-888-443-3110 now for a free estimate and immediate water removal from a contractor near you. How to Remove Water In A Crawl Space Getting rid of water in your crawl space takes the right equipment and a little know-how. If there is only an inch or two of water, you can clean it up on your own. For more water or if the water sat for days or weeks, hiring a water damage restoration company is a safer option. Stop The Flow Of Water – If a broken pipe or other plumbing issue is that cause, you need to stop the flow of water before beginning cleanup.